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João Cancelo to return to FC Barcelona as free agent
João Cancelo is set to complete a permanent return to FC Barcelona following the termination of his contract with the Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The 32-year-old Portuguese defender, who has previously played for the Catalan club on loan, will join Barcelona as a free agent.
Negotiations had previously stalled due to Al-Hilal's demand for a transfer fee between 10 and 15 million euros. However, a mutual contract termination has cleared the path for a move at no cost to Barcelona. Factors contributing to the departure include Cancelo's desire to return to Catalonia, Al-Hilal's need to reduce its number of foreign players to comply with league regulations, and reported friction with coach Simone Inzaghi.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has identified Cancelo as a key priority for the squad due to his versatility in playing on both flanks. The player is expected to arrive in Barcelona early next week to finalize formalities and is anticipated to sign a contract for two seasons.
Entities
Al Hilal · Al-Hilal · FC Barcelona · Hansi Flick · João Cancelo · Simone Inzaghi
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Joao Cancelo was omitted from Al Hilal's squad for their opening match against Al-Faisaly. www.mundodeportivo.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi stated that Joao Cancelo's future is a decision for the club's board. www.mundodeportivo.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Al Hilal has reportedly increased its asking price for Cancelo to 15 million euros. www.mundodeportivo.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Barcelona and Al Hilal had previously moved toward a transfer deal worth 10 million euros. www.mundodeportivo.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Hansi Flick has expressed interest in signing Cancelo to strengthen Barcelona's full-back positions. www.mundodeportivo.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Al Hilal currently has 13 foreign players in its squad, while regulations only allow for 10. www.mundodeportivo.com